Lactic Acid Vs Glycolic Acid

You’ve probably noticed that we make an 8% AHA toner with lactic acid, but there’s no glycolic acid anywhere in our line.  Why?

Lactic acid, and glycolic acids are both alpha hydroxy acids.  They’re chemical exfoliants that remove dead skin cells, helping to increase the rate of cell renewal revealing smoother, younger-looking skin, and a more radiant complexion.  

Alpha Hydroxy Acid Skin Benefits: 

• minimize pores
• fight acne 
• help uneven complexions
• build collagen to help with fine lines and wrinkles

BUT lactic acid’s skin benefits don’t stop there. 

Why lactic acid is better than glycolic acid for skin

• increases skin's production of ceramides to strengthen your skin barrier
• helps prevent dehydration from water loss
• better for lightening hyperpigmentation
• better at improving uneven skin tone
• more humectant than glycolic acid
• better for overall skin hyration
• lactic acid is less irritating than glycolic acid

Lactic acid is a smaller molecule, so it doesn’t penetrate as deeply into the skin. It may work a little slower, but it is more gentle, and less irritating so it’s suitable for all skin types especially sensitive skin.  Glycolic acid may produce results a little faster, but alpha hydroxy acid skin treatments aren't a one-off thing. They're products you'll likely use for years, so it makes sense to go with the lactic acid which won't damage your skin's moisture barrier over time.

In skincare- especially anti-aging skincare I think the best routine is the one that you’ll use consistently.  Lactic acid’s gentleness makes it safe to use every day (once you get used to it).  

Glycolic acid may deliver slightly faster results, but in the long term your skin will be healthier overall by using an AHA product made with lactic acid instead of glycolic acid because of its ceramide building properties, and reduced irritation.  

We’re not a quick buck kind of company.  We want you to look and feel your best all the time.  We want you to love your skin, tell your friends, and come back to us for years.  For most people, lactic acid is better than glycolic acid.

For me, as the formulator, it all comes down to the “sister test” that I use when I’m thinking about a formula.  Would I want to hand this to my sister or best friend to use?  Do I think it’s the best I can do?  I wouldn’t feel right handing my sister a product with glycolic acid knowing that lactic acid is going to be better for her skin in the long term, so we don’t make anything with glycolic acid.

 

P.S- I like chemical exfoliants as toners because I think the little bit of scrubbing that you do when you apply helps it work better than if you used it as a serum, or in a moisturizer.